A Cuban in exile has turned her visits to the markets into tips for other emigrants who, like her, are looking for ways to send a bit of joy to their family members on the island.
In a video posted on TikTok, the user @melicapote shared the products she usually sends to Cuba, with special attention to the children in her family.
“We have my nephews and my husband's children over there, and those are the Nesquik that we like to send, the bottled ones, spectacular because they don’t contain sugar,” the young woman explained while showing the shelves of a Walmart store.
The TikToker advises looking for products that are not too heavy and are affordable, which is an important detail for those who have to bear high shipping costs. Among her options are cookies, lollipops, and cheaper coffees that, she mentions, are very well received in Cuba.
If you can't afford these more expensive ones, I highly recommend these, as I send them to my family, she said while showing alternatives for coffee and other more affordable sweets.
He also mentioned that when he can, he includes bacon that is frozen because it is cheaper and more practical: “I like to send this bacon that costs about 5 pesos and something, super economical too.”
The most enthusiastic moment of the recording was when he talked about the chips, which he recommends above almost any other product. “This is where we find the main dish, my dear: the potatoes. These right here are only one peso, super economical… and these are the ones I buy, and they come out much cheaper,” he said.
To top it off, she showcased candies, jellies, and butter cookies that, according to her, are light and yield a lot: “Delicious everything,” she concluded while reviewing her purchases.
The video reflects a reality shared by thousands of Cubans abroad: the need to find creative ways to send packages that not only ease the challenging daily life on the island but also bring a smile to the little ones. In every piece of advice and every chosen product, there is a gesture of love and nostalgia that connects families separated by the sea and circumstances.
Tips and Strategies for Sending Packages to Cuba
What are the most recommended products to send to Cuba?
Light, economical, and non-perishable products are ideal for sending to Cuba. Some recommendations include cookies, candies, chips, frozen bacon, and coffee. These items are not only well-received but also practical due to the high shipping costs.
Why is it important to consider the weight and cost of products when shipping to Cuba?
Due to high shipping costs, it is essential to choose products that are lightweight and affordable. This maximizes the number of items that can be shipped without incurring excessive expenses, which is crucial for those who send aid regularly.
What strategies can be used to pack products efficiently?
An effective strategy is to open factory packages and use airtight bags to save space and avoid issues during airport security checks. Furthermore, meticulously organizing each item in the suitcase can maximize the cargo volume allowed by airlines.
What products are most valued in Cuba due to scarcity?
Basic products such as oil, toothpaste, sardines, and canned foods are highly valued in Cuba. These items are difficult to find and expensive on the island, making them very appreciated when sent from abroad.
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